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Development Of A Step Feature-based Intelligent Process Planning System For Prismatic Parts

Computer aided process planning (CAPP) is generally acknowledged as a significant activity to achieve Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM). In coping with the dynamic changes in the modern manufacturing environment, the awareness of developing integrated and intelligent CAPP systems has been raised in an attempt to generate more successful implementation of intelligent manufacturing systems.

The main objective of this research work has been to develop an integrated intelligent process planning system that helps designers and process planners to improve their design and planning in the early stages of the product life cycle. In
order to achieve this goal, the following specific objectives have been accomplished:

(1) Developed a STEP-based feature modeler for building mechanical parts using high-level 3D solid features as the basic design entities. The modeler is capable of generating high-level product data in XML format according to
ISO 10303-AP224 standard. This file can be used to integrate into CAPP/CAM systems without using a complex feature recognition process.

(2) Developed a STEP-based intelligent process planning system for prismatic parts. The system maps STEP AP224 XML data file and produces the corresponding machining operations to generate a digital process plan in XML format according to ISO 14649 (STEP-NC) standard. A Hybrid
approach of most recent techniques of artificial intelligence (neural networks, fuzzy logic and rule-based) is used as the inference engine of the developed system.

Three neural network models are implemented to select machining operations, cutting tools, and machine tools. Several fuzzy logic models are utilized to select machining parameters for different machining operations, work material, and tool material combinations. The rule-based functions are utilized to perform operation sequence and setup planning.

An object-oriented approach has been used in the definition and implementation of the developed system. This approach offers advantages of incremental system development and reusability. The developed system is integrated
with AutoCAD using Activex automation interface. Several examples have been presented to demonstrate and verify the applicability of the developed system.

Finally, this research will contribute significantly to the applicability of advanced artificial intelligent techniques in CAPP systems. The implementation of STEP technology in this research will support the integration of CAPP system with
other systems in CIM environment. The developed system is intended to be an effective concurrent engineering tool that bridges the gap between design and manufacturing.

Identiferoai:union.ndltd.org:METU/oai:etd.lib.metu.edu.tr:http://etd.lib.metu.edu.tr/upload/12606104/index.pdf
Date01 June 2005
CreatorsAmaitik, Saleh Mohammed
ContributorsKilic, S.engin
PublisherMETU
Source SetsMiddle East Technical Univ.
LanguageEnglish
Detected LanguageEnglish
TypePh.D. Thesis
Formattext/pdf
RightsTo liberate the content for public access

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